Meaning of "No Chance (Regret)" by Lou Reed

The song delves into the emotions and regrets that arise from not being able to properly say goodbye to someone who has passed away. There is a sense of longing and self-blame as the narrator reflects on their own emotional vulnerability and the perceived strength of the person they lost. The repeated refrain of "I didn't get a chance to say goodbye" underscores the sense of unfinished business and the desire for closure. The lyrics also explore themes of normalcy and emotional complexity, contrasting the narrator's feelings with what they perceive as a more stable and unaffected state of being. The mention of being embarrassed by their own perceived lack of strength highlights the internal struggle and self-criticism that often accompanies grief. Overall, the song captures the raw emotions of loss, regret, and the universal experience of wishing for one last opportunity to properly say goodbye to a loved one.